Kicking off the New Year with new and old friends, the 2024 Annual Lion of Judah Luncheon promises to be filled with camaraderie and music. The signature event will feature author Dara Horn and Israeli megastar Gad Elbaz, a prominent figure in the Jewish music scene.

This year’s Lion Lunch will be held Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at B’nai Torah Congregation, 6261 SW 18th St, Boca Raton, FL 33433. Registration begins at 10:45 a.m.

Part of an international sisterhood 18,000 women strong, South Palm Beach County’s Lion contingent of more than 700 is among the largest in the country. Event Co-Chairs Melinda Friedman and Phyllis Melman, along with Women’s Philanthropy Chair Elyssa Kupferberg and Vice Chair of Campaign Shelly Snyder, have planned a memorable program to celebrate the work and impact of local Lions.

“At the Lion of Judah Luncheon, we come together in a powerful display of unity, celebrating the unbreakable bonds of our sisterhood,” said Melinda. “In the face of challenges, this event is more than a gathering; it’s a testament to our collective strength. As representatives of Women’s Philanthropy, we are excited to extend a heartfelt invitation to please join us.”

For Phyllis, who came to South Florida from Washington, D.C. 15 years ago, the Lions of Judah represent a way to make a real difference. It was through her relationships with local Lions and with the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County that she found a new sense of purpose and a sisterhood of like-minded women who share her values.

Collectively, Lions of Judah emphasize the importance of the Federation’s commitment to honoring the Jewish past, enriching the Jewish present and nurturing the Jewish future by addressing the most critical needs of those living in our Jewish community and in Israel.

As members of the esteemed sisterhood of Lions of Judah, they set an exemplary standard of leadership and giving.  Lions represent an influential force of philanthropic Jewish women spanning all ages, recognized globally for their vital role in creating social justice, aiding the vulnerable, preserving human dignity and building Jewish identity.

This year’s featured speaker Dara Horn is a multiple National Jewish Book Awards recipient and one of Granta Magazine’s Best Young American Novelists. Her acclaimed novel, “People Love Dead Jews,” has earned recognition for its literary prowess and exploration of complex themes. Adding music to the event, Elbaz will bring his unique talent to the stage. With millions of YouTube hits and a global fan base, Elbaz’s performance promises to be uplifting with his powerful message of unity.

A minimum individual woman’s gift of $5,000 to the 2024 UJA/Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County Annual Campaign is required for attendance. The couvert is $125.

The 2024 Lion of Judah Luncheon is proudly sponsored by Ivan & Co, Boca Raton Observer, Southern Glazer, Atlas Event Rental, Wells Fargo, and Women’s Philanthropy Division Sponsor Boca Raton Regional Hospital.

For more information about the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County (jewishboca.org), the Lion Luncheon, or to visit our Federation’s 100-acre campus in west Boca Raton, please contact Rachel Lempert, RachelL@bocafed.org, 561-852-6061.